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xiii Introduction This book provides an overview of the essentials of what one needs to know about attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It covers its history causes and risk factors signs and symptoms major variants potential complications effects on family and friends prevention useful- ness of various treatments, including pharmacological and supportive approaches and future directions. This book opens with ten essential questions that introduce and briefly answer some of the key misperceptions about ADHD. The points explored here are more fully explained in the subsequent chapters. Nevertheless, they provide the reader with the basics of what one really needs to know about ADHD. The initial chapter discusses what the disorder of ADHD is. Issues of incidence and prevalence rates are surveyed, and the neurobiological back- ground is broken down. A quick look is made into various domains of per- sonal, educational, and workplace issues impacted by ADHD. The second chapter covers the historical background of ADHD and the development of respective ADHD medications. Causes and risk factors of ADHD are examined, and common signs and symptoms summarized. Diagnosis, treatment, and management of the disorder are critiqued. While treatment with ADHD medications pro- duces substantial benefits for over two-thirds of those with ADHD, other approaches are also useful. Taken as prescribed, these medications don’t tend to result in dependence, rather significantly decreasing such likeli- hood. Treatment doesn’t cure ADHD but, rather, reduces the occurrence of negative symptoms. Family and friendship concerns are covered, and prevention strategies reviewed, as are other associated controversies. The final full chapter explores current research and future directions. What the future holds for ADHD is difficult to predict, but increasing evidence is